Hyman Hill look after our tenants

Who do I contact if I have a problem?

Some properties are managed by the landlord and in this instance, on the day you sign your agreement, you will be provided with contact details for the landlord and any relevant information that they have stipulated. If the landlord has requested Hyman Hill manages the property, then we have a dedicated full-time Lettings Manager in branch who is on hand to deal with all your enquiries and will liaise directly with the landlord.

Why are some properties furnished and some unfurnished?

Properties are let in a the condition the landlord would like the property to remain. Unfurnished is the most commonly preferred letting option whereby carpets, curtains and some white goods are expected to remain in place. Part-furnished means that there may be a few items of bedroom or lounge furniture, for example, that the landlord would like to remain at the property and it is your responsibility to ensure that these items are used in a respectful manner. Fully furnished means that the property contains all furniture in all rooms and in some case, additional kitchen items. Hyman Hill will be able to source the best option for you.

What are the implications of a tenancy agreement?

A tenancy agreement is there to ensure that the rights are protected for both parties and that tenant and landlord are aware of their own responsibilities regarding the property. It is a legally binding document, usually signed on an initial six month period, with the combined decision of the tenant and landlord to continue at a variety of periods after that time. If any of your circumstances change during the course of your tenancy that may affect your situation or responsibilities, please inform us as soon as possible so that we may assist and advise you.

What are Hyman Hill’s fees?

A holding deposit is required to ensure the property is reserved for you whilst referencing is performed: A fee of £195 per person (inclusive of VAT) is applicable which covers referencing fees, administration/processing fees and registering the deposit with the Government Deposit Protection Service. Once your references are returned satisfactorily and you are ready to move in, then we require a month’s rent in advance and a months’ deposit, plus £100.

Do I get my deposit back?

A deposit is held as a security measure. This amount, equal to one months’ rent plus £100, is held by The Deposit Protection Service. This amount will be returned to you, in full, at the end of your tenancy, once an inspection of the vacated property has taken place and Hyman Hill and the landlord are satisfied that no damage has been caused and that the property has been left in a similar state to that in which it was initially let. If any such damage is caused or works are required due to tenant’s negligence, then the deposit will be used to rectify this matter and the difference returned to you.

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Legislation

Effective as of April 2007, The Housing Act 2004 (Chapter 4, sections 212-5 and schedule 10) is a new piece of legislation that has been introduced by The Government that makes provision for both the protection of tenancy deposits and the resolution of disputes over their return. Your deposit is held by The Deposit Protection Service and this is confirmed by a certificate which you will receive shortly after your tenancy begins.

What is a guarantor?

If Homelet encounter any problems whilst referencing you, you may be required to use a guarantor to assist your application. Please ensure someone acting on your behalf in this respect is aware of the implications – the guarantor is as responsible as the tenant for all monies due in relation to the rental of the property, as well as the obligations of the contract. A guarantor must have strong financial references to assist your application.

When can I move in?

Following the return of acceptable references, a moving in date can be agreed. This can be as little as several days, or a maximum of one month.

Do I need insurance?

We would always advise you to obtain contents insurance to cover possessions belonging to you within the property. The landlord will have their own insurance covering the building and own items, but we strongly recommend that you commence your own policy. Hyman Hill work closely with Homelet, a specialist rental insurance agency, and we can provide information on Homelet insurance products.

Can I have a pet?

Most landlords prefer not to have animals within the property and the tenancy agreement will reflect this stipulation. There are landlords however, that with assurances from tenants, will be more flexible and Hyman Hill will be able to advise you in this respect and find you the right property for your

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Am I responsible for bills?

Yes, the tenant must provide accurate meter readings to gas and electricity suppliers at the commencement of the tenancy and inform any other service providers, such as telephone, water, council, TV licensing of their date of moving in and contact details

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